The FAFSA® will automatically apply you for federal grants, loans, and work-study. However, besides federal aid, you may be eligible for financial aid from state agencies or your own college.
Most state agencies will use the FAFSA® as the basis for all state aid. However, check with your state agency to see if additional forms are required. In particular, states often run smaller, niche grants (e.g., specifically for foster children, children of fallen state firefighters/police officers, etc.) These kinds of grants often have their own special eligibility requirements, forms, and documentation.
Most colleges will also give out need- or merit-based aid from their endowments. Most will also use the FAFSA® to determine this aid, but some might require additional forms, like the CSS Profile, or a specific endowed/merit scholarship application. Check with your school’s financial aid office to find out more details.
Lastly, remember that outside of financial aid, independent companies, foundations, and organizations may also sponsor “external” or “private” scholarships, which can be applied to any college. Most of these scholarships have their own applications, which require you to answer certain essay questions. Check out your Matched Scholarships page on Going Merry to see what additional scholarships you’re eligible for.